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Growing up as a child farm worker in a family of 15, Dr. Resa never imagined he could become a doctor. Abandoned by his single mother, who had 5 kids before she turned 20, he grew up in an environment of severe poverty, neglect, and a total disregard for education. Abuse, alcohol, and drugs were all around him. In this TEDx talk, Dr. Resa shares his personal story where he triumphs over adversity and ultimately gives back to his community. The first ever TEDxMonterey took place on April 16th, 2010 and enjoyed participation from over 400 people both in person and online. Community leaders and innovators all assembled at the Monterey Institute of International Studies around the theme: Be the Solution, exploring new solutions, possibilities and technologies while also understanding the trap of the easy solutions. Speakers and performers dazzled the audience during the three sessions which corresponded to a sub-theme of possibility, perseverance and hope. About TEDx, x = independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)